Petrol up by Ksh 28!

Motorists and households are set to feel the pinch after the Energy and Petroleum Regulatory Authority (EPRA) announced a sharp increase in fuel prices for the period between April 15 and May 14, 2026.

In its latest review, EPRA indicated that the price of Super Petrol will rise by KSh28.69 per litre, while Diesel will see an even steeper increase of KSh40.30 per litre. Kerosene prices will remain unchanged.

Under the new pricing, Super Petrol, Diesel, and Kerosene will retail at KSh206.97, KSh206.84, and KSh152.78 respectively, effective at midnight for the next 30 days.

Global Oil Prices Drive Increase

The regulator attributed the spike to rising global oil prices, which have significantly increased the landed cost of imported fuel. As Kenya relies entirely on imported refined petroleum products, local prices remain highly sensitive to international market trends.

According to EPRA, the average landed cost of Super Petrol rose by 41.53 percent, from US$582.11 per cubic metre in February to US$823.87 in March. Diesel recorded an even sharper increase of 68.72 percent, while Kerosene surged by 105.15 percent over the same period.

“The increases have been driven by escalated prices in the international market,” EPRA said in a statement.

Government Interventions

In an effort to cushion consumers, the government has reduced Value Added Tax (VAT) on petroleum products from 16 percent to 13 percent following recent legal adjustments.

Additionally, about KSh6.2 billion will be drawn from the Petroleum Development Levy (PDL) to help stabilise pump prices.

Despite these measures, the pressure from global markets has outweighed relief efforts, resulting in higher fuel costs.

Other Factors at Play

EPRA also noted that its pricing did not include Super Petrol delivered by One Petroleum ex MT Paloma, in line with an earlier government directive.

The authority further explained that fuel is traded internationally in US dollars, meaning exchange rate fluctuations also influence local prices. In March, the Kenya shilling averaged 130.08 against the dollar, reflecting a slight weakening.

Impact on the Economy

EPRA maintained that its pricing framework, guided by the Petroleum Act 2019, is designed to ensure fair competition while allowing oil marketers to recover costs.

The regulator reaffirmed its commitment to balancing consumer protection with investor interests, even as global energy market volatility continues to impact domestic prices.

With the new rates taking effect at midnight, Kenyans should brace for increased transport and energy costs in the coming weeks.